A Heartbreaker in hafnarfjordur: Italy Falls to Iceland in Double Overtime
The Italian national basketball team suffered a devastating loss against Iceland in Hafnarfjordur, falling 107-105 after two grueling overtime periods. This defeat, the second in as many games for the azzurri, leaves them with a 2-point record, tied with the Netherlands. Iceland,propelled by the dominant performance of Tryggvi Hlinason,now sits at 4 points,trailing only undefeated Russia in Group H of the FIBA World Cup 2023 qualifiers.
The rematch is set for Sunday at the PalaDozza in Bologna, where Italy will need to regroup and impose thier game from the start. Falling behind, as they did throughout the game in Iceland, is a recipe for disaster.Italy’s shooting woes were a major factor in their downfall. They connected on only 39% of their shots, including a dismal 12 out of 36 from three-point range. iceland dominated the boards, grabbing 55 rebounds to Italy’s 36.
Despite the loss, Nico Mannion lead the Azzurri with 23 points, while Michele Vitali contributed 22 and Stefano Tonut added 18, including crucial baskets in both overtime periods. Amedeo della Valle, though, had a disappointing night, scoring only 9 points on 2-of-10 shooting.
Iceland’s victory was largely due to the phenomenal performance of Tryggvi Hlinason. The Zaragoza center was unstoppable, scoring 34 points on an amazing 14-of-16 shooting (including 6-of-12 from the free throw line). He also dominated the boards with 21 rebounds, 7 of them offensive, and added 5 blocks for a staggering efficiency rating of 50.
Hermannsson chipped in with 23 points and 7 assists, while Fridriksson added 25 points, with all three players logging over 43 minutes on the court.
the game started promisingly for Italy, with an early 6-0 lead and a 16-13 advantage after Matteo Imbrò’s only basket of the game.However, Iceland quickly seized control, going on an 8-0 run to take a 21-18 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Iceland extended their lead to 9 points in the second quarter, thanks to baskets from Gudmundsson and a powerful dunk by hlinason, who proved to be a nightmare for the Italian defense. Italy struggled on both ends of the court, shooting poorly and trailing by 12 points at halftime, 44-33.
The second half saw a more competitive Italy, who managed to close the gap to within 5 points. Mannion and Vitali led the charge, but Iceland always seemed to have an answer.
The final quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with Hlinason, Hermannsson, and Fridriksson consistently making key plays for Iceland. Despite Italy’s valiant effort, they couldn’t overcome the deficit, ultimately falling in double overtime.
This loss is a important setback for Italy’s World Cup qualifying campaign. They will need to regroup quickly and find a way to overcome their shooting struggles and rebounding woes if they hope to secure a spot in the tournament.
A Thrilling Double overtime Battle: Italy Falls to Iceland in a Nail-biter
Italy faced a formidable Icelandic squad in a FIBA World Cup qualifier, ultimately succumbing in a heart-stopping double overtime thriller. The final score stood at 103-98, leaving the Azzurri with a bitter taste of defeat.The game was a rollercoaster of momentum swings. Iceland initially surged ahead, but Italy responded with a barrage of three-pointers from Mannion and Pajola. Vitali added another long-range bomb,and Tonut chipped in with consecutive baskets,tying the game at 85-85 and forcing overtime.
The first extra period saw Biligha and Mannion dominate for Italy, showcasing their physical prowess and speed. Though, Iceland remained composed, regaining a three-point lead thanks to gudmundsson and Hlinason. Just when it seemed Iceland had secured the victory, Tonut drained a clutch three-pointer, sending the game into a second overtime.
In the decisive period, Iceland seized control. Hlinason extended their lead to three points, and Fridriksson delivered a crucial three-pointer, putting Iceland up by six. Despite the deficit, Italy refused to give up, closing the gap to two points with a Vitali basket. but Hermannsson sealed Iceland’s victory with a clutch free throw, extending their lead to three. Mannion, fouled on a drive, made one of two free throws but committed an offensive foul on the rebound, ending Italy’s hopes.
Key Performers:
Iceland: Fridriksson (25 points), gudmundsson (11 points), Hermannsson (23 points), Hlinason (34 points)
Italy: Mannion (23 points), Vitali (22 points), tonut (18 points)
This dramatic loss highlights the competitive nature of the FIBA World Cup qualifiers. Despite the setback, Italy demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit, battling until the very end. The Azzurri will need to regroup and learn from this experience as they continue their quest for a World Cup berth.
Related content:
Italy’s Rise in the Basketball World: A Look at Coach Sacchetti’s Impact
Della Valle Reflects on Iceland Match: “Decisive Games Ahead”
* Sacchetti Analyzes Iceland Defeat: “Performance Wasn’t Enough”
Judging by the exciting boxscores and descriptions from this FIBA World Cup qualifier match leading up to Sunday’s rematch in Bologna, we’re in for an absolute thriller! Italy’s shooting woes were definitely a factor in this loss, only connecting on 39% of their shots, but let’s give credit where credit is due: Iceland played a phenomenal game, with Tryggvi Hlinason putting on a clinic, particularly dominating the boards.
[1] highlights the importance of leadership skills in sports governance, and clearly, both coaching staffs will be looking at ways to gain an edge strategically for Sunday’s game.
Italy will want to avoid falling behind early again, as they did in Iceland. Coming out strong in Bologna will be crucial.
It’s great to see the passion and intensity of international basketball – especially in qualifying matches like this where every basket and every possession matters. I’m looking forward to a hard-fought rematch, and I’m sure there will be plenty for us to analyze afterwards! What are your predictions for Sunday’s game?
